Eating well in winter

As you get older it takes longer to warm up which can be bad for your health. The cold thickens blood and increases blood pressure, and breathing in cold air can increase the risk of chest infections.

Keeping warm

1. The ideal temperature is 64°F (18°C) for your bedroom and 70°F (21°C) for your living room. Check your thermostat or use a room thermometer to monitor temperature.
2. Keep your bedroom window shut on a winter’s night, during the winter months it’s not healthy to sleep with your window open as the temperature usually drops significantly overnight.
3. Use a hot-water bottle, wheat bag or electric blanket to warm the bed, but never use a hot-water bottle and electric blanket together as this can be dangerous.
4. Wear several thin layers of clothing as these trap air and keep you warmer than one thick layer.
5. Have your heating system serviced and your chimney swept, or ask your landlord to do this if it’s their responsibility. Install an audible carbon monoxide alarm and never block air vents as fires and heaters need good ventilation.

Age UK's Winter Wrapped up guide has more information on keeping warm in the winter.

Eating well

1. Make sure you have at least one hot meal a day and regular hot drinks.
2. Include a variety of foods in your diet to get the nutrients that you need.
3. Keep basic food items in your cupboard or freezer in case it’s too cold to go shopping.

Age UK's free guide Healthy eating has more advice on eating well.

Useful numbers and services

1. For Information and Advice on a wide range of subjects, call the Age UK Oxfordshire helpline: 0345 450 1276.
2. Citizens Advice Consumer Service can provide a benefits check to ensure you are recieving all the money you're entitled to: 0844 411 1444.
3. Oxfordshire Affordable Warmth Service can advise how to keep your home warm while keeping your fuel bills down: 0800 107 0044.
4. Energy Saving Trust can give free advice on saving energy: 0300 123 1234.